A student with a hearing impairment is one who has a lack of or reduction in the ability to hear clearly. The problem may occur in the outer, middle, or inner ear or along the pathway to the brain. The degree of hearing loss may range from mild to profound.

Because a hearing impairment is unseen and may go undetected, it is often called the "invisible" disability. When a child has any of the following characteristics, the parent should consult with a doctor who specializes in hearing disorders.

• Lack of or limited response to sound or speech
• Lack of or delayed speech and language skills
• Frequent ear infections

1. Share your observations and concerns with:
   1. Your pediatrician or ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT)
   2. Your child’s teacher, speech-language clinician, or the guidance counselor
2. Follow-up with any recommended medical management procedures or medications prescribed by your doctor or ENT. If an audiological evaluation is recommended, this can be completed through the Orange County Audiology Department or your private audiologist. To schedule an appointment with the Orange County Audiology Department, call 407-897-6420.
3. Share all new information with school personnel. Ask what educational services area available to help your child.
4. If your child is age 0 to 5, please contact PDIS at 407-317-3503.
5. 5-21 your school's staffing specialist or child's teacher.

The Orange County Public School System has a continuum of services for students with hearing impairments from birth through age 22.

Early communication skills are facilitated in the Parent/Infant Toddler program. 

Once in the program the emphasis is on individualized instruction that develops language, literacy, academic and self-advocacy skills. Each year an annual review meeting is held with the parents, the teacher and other professionals who work with your child. Together, the committee will develop an individual educational plan (IEP) to meet the needs of your child.

The Deaf or Hard-of-Hearing Program will provide the appropriate educational setting and degree of specialized services and accommodations to assist the student in meeting classroom demands. Proper placement and support will provide a foundation for your child to function successfully at school, within the family structure and as a contributing member of society.

Parents are encouraged to:

• Be a team member, become involved
• Follow audiological recommendations
• Keep ear molds and hearing aids in good working condition
• Reinforce language
• Read to your child at home
• Help your child develop a healthy self-concept
• Encourage independence
• Seek counseling, if necessary

If your child is evaluated and does not meet eligibility for the program, you may want to meet with personnel from your child’s school to discuss other options for providing appropriate accommodations. To learn more about 504's, click here.

The Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind is located in St. Augustine, FL. Residential and day programs are provided for eligible students Prekindergarten through 12th grade. Information on the school and enrollment criteria is available at Florida School for the Deaf and the Blind